In all events, Taiwan is surely a better candidate for membership in the WTO. Despite having already met all necessary conditions for membership, it has been forced to patiently cool its heels while China's leaders bumble along in their negotiations trying to cut deals and trade guanxi.
Giving in order to receive
Meanwhile, Taiwan's economy has a proven record of sustained growth, a free press, an elected legislature and a respected legal system that is increasingly dedicated to the rule of law. Their experience with political reform provides clear evidence that multiparty democracy will be a permanent feature.
As it is, China's actions do great harm in its bid for WTO membership. Beijing's continued rigidity and unwillingness to compromise sensibly raises questions over its ability to abide by WTO mandates. And then there is the issue of deeply-imbedded corruption of its officials that also undermines China's ability to honor its international commitments.
China may not yet belong in the WTO, but Taiwan certainly does. The leadership in Beijing should act in a manner that is in the best interest of China and Taiwan. Countries with governments accountable to their citizenry are more likely to play by international rules. Letting Taiwan in first would also provide WTO partners with a more reliable partner that could, in turn, become a more willing ally in aiding China's application.
Christopher Lingle is an independent corporate consultant and adjunct scholar of the Center for Independent Studies in Sydney who authored The Rise and Decline of the Asian Century. His E-mail address is: CLINGLE@ufm.edu.gt.
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